How to Verify a Contractor License in South Carolina

TL;DR — Verifying a Contractor License in South Carolina in 60 Seconds

South Carolina requires licensing for general and mechanical contractors through the Contractors Licensing Board under the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR). Licenses are grouped by project value limits. To verify, search on LicensedCheck.com or the LLR license verification portal.

Residential builders are licensed separately through the Residential Builders Commission. Always confirm which license type your contractor holds and whether it covers your project.

Best Contractor License Verification Tools for South Carolina

LicensedCheck.com will soon include South Carolina license data. Best for: homeowners in Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, Myrtle Beach, and across South Carolina.

The LLR license verification portal at llr.sc.gov is the official source. It covers general contractors, mechanical contractors, and residential builders. The portal provides license status, group classification, and disciplinary history.

Which South Carolina Trades Require State Licenses

South Carolina requires licensing for general contractors and mechanical contractors (HVAC, plumbing, electrical) through the Contractors Licensing Board. Licenses are classified into groups based on the maximum project value: Group 1 (up to $25,000) through Group 5 (unlimited).

Residential builders and specialty contractors working on residential projects are licensed through the Residential Builders Commission. Electricians and plumbers working as subcontractors must hold appropriate mechanical contractor licenses.

The $2,500 threshold applies — any construction work valued over $2,500 requires state licensing.

Protecting Yourself When Hiring in South Carolina

Verify the contractor's license group covers your project value. A Group 1 contractor cannot take on projects exceeding $25,000. Confirm the license is active and check for any disciplinary actions through LLR.

South Carolina requires contractors to carry general liability insurance and a surety bond. Request certificates of both. Get a written contract with the full scope of work, price, and the contractor's license number.

Watch for these red flags: a contractor without a state license for work over $2,500, a license group too low for your project value, anyone who cannot provide their LLR license number, and contractors who demand full payment upfront. Verify first at LicensedCheck, then hire.